Farmers protesting against the Centre’s new farm laws have received permission to hold a tractor rally on Republic Day. The Delhi Police, however, has issued a series of restrictions, saying permission was given only to show respect for the farmers’ demand. “Protesting farmers can enter Delhi but can’t disturb the Republic Day parade,” the Delhi Police said on Sunday evening, declaring that the tractor rally will begin after the day’s traditional big parade on Rajpath, which terminates at the iconic Red Fort close to noon.
The farmers — who have been sitting on protest outside the borders of Delhi for nearly two months — will have to enter the city to access the Ring Road. The green signal came after a series of meetings — including some with the farmers, who have promised a peaceful rally that will move along a road encircling the city.
The farmers, the police said, can enter Delhi for few kilometers and then exit at designated spots. While the number of participating tractors is yet to be decided, the route has been fixed in such a way that it can be protected
Indicating that stringent security will be provided for the rally, the Delhi Police said their personnel, who will be posted for Republic Day parade, will have to be ready for further deployment on short notice.